Hazaribag Truck Drivers Block Road After Driver Assaulted Near NTPC Coal Project

Hazaribag: Truck drivers on Wednesday blocked the Keredari–Tandwa main road against the alleged assault of a driver near the NTPC-owned Chatti Bariatu coal project in Keredari block late Tuesday.Eyewitnesses claimed that heavy vehicle driver Umesh Mahto was about to rest inside his vehicle when several persons, allegedly under the influence of alcohol and said to be participating in a protest led by former minister Yogendra Sao, allegedly assaulted him with sticks and rods. The injured driver sustained head injuries and was referred to Hazaribag. The group also allegedly damaged two vehicles.Umesh lodged a complaint with Keredari police.Police from Keredari and Pagar outpost arrested two persons. During interrogation, the arrested men allegedly claimed to be supporters of former minister Yogendra Sao. Police said further arrests were likely after examining CCTV footage.Officer in-charge of the Keredari outpost, Dinesh Kumar Mandal, said, “Some drivers were assaulted on Tuesday night. A case has been registered and CCTV footage is being analysed to identify all those involved.”NTPC dispatch officer Diwakar Mishra said that the incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in the area and additional witnesses were present at the weighbridge.The drivers’ association alleged that mine workers were being assaulted and demanded immediate arrests and security arrangements. Vehicular movement remained affected for hours.Administrative officials reached the site and attempted to persuade the protesters to lift the blockade. The drivers, however, stated that the agitation would continue until justice was delivered and safety was ensured.Former minister Yogendra Sao denied any involvement of his supporters in the assault. He said, “Attempts are being made to malign a peaceful agitation carried out near Pagar Kantaghar led by me. I demand fair and transparent investigation using all available CCTV footage. Adequate police force should be deployed to maintain law and order at the protest site.”